On Riding Light Rail, Southbound

Two years after Sound Transit's Central Link line has opened, the city has had a chance to become used to its presence. One of the benefits trumpeted by pro-mass transit factions in developing the corridor would be the development of the real estate surrounding the Central line, evidence of which is now being seen and felt during the ride to and from SeaTac International Airport.

Granted, the Beacon Hill and Mount Baker stops were already pretty well developed when Light Rail came through, the impact could really be seen near the Columbia City stop, as new housing options and shops are built along the line. A little further south at the Othello station, a new dental clinic and medical marijuana dispensary represent the coming changes; it's only a matter of time before the approaching changes spread out to the Rainier Beach stop.

It's the areas between the stops that really tell the story of how the communities affected by these changes could be affected. To say that the South Seattle region is home to some of the most culturally diverse populace in the Pacific Northwest would be an understatement; to characterize the nature of the new business coming in as catering to the other extreme might be overblown, but somewhat accurate.

There is a persistent misconception among those who bring in new businesses to the various Seattle neighborhoods that development equals gentrification, and it really does not need to be the case. While there is currently no urgent need to worry too much about the effect the changes can bring, it is not too soon to start being mindful of the communities we have moved into and those where service will extend to in the years ahead.

Change is no reason to halt mass transit expansion, but it should also not be cause to uproot the traditions or populations that reside in its path.